VTS Regulatory and Legal Framework 3

Question 1

Which regulation requires vessels in a VTS area to maintain a continuous watch on the designated VTS working channel?

Accepted Answer

33 CFR 161.21

Answer

33 CFR 26.03

Answer

46 CFR 83.01

Answer

47 CFR 80.305

Question 2

Under COLREGS, in a narrow channel or fairway, a vessel that can safely navigate only within the channel shall:

Accepted Answer

Keep as near to the starboard side of the channel as is safe and practicable

Answer

Sound one prolonged blast every two minutes

Answer

Keep as near to the outer limit of the channel as is safe and practicable

Answer

Request VTS clearance before proceeding

Question 3

The IMO's ship reporting system guidelines recommend that VTS operators maintain records of vessel communications for a minimum of:

Accepted Answer

30 days

Answer

24 hours

Answer

7 days

Answer

90 days

Question 4

What is the legal significance of the term 'shall' versus 'should' in VTS regulations and IMO guidelines?

Accepted Answer

'Shall' denotes a mandatory requirement; 'should' denotes a recommended practice

Answer

Both terms have the same mandatory meaning in maritime law

Answer

'Should' is more binding than 'shall' in international conventions

Answer

'Shall' applies to foreign vessels only; 'should' applies to domestic vessels

Question 5

A foreign vessel entering a US VTS area is subject to US VTS regulations. This authority is based on the principle of:

Accepted Answer

Port state jurisdiction over vessels in internal waters and territorial sea

Answer

Flag state jurisdiction only

Answer

Exclusive flag state control at all times

Answer

Mutual agreement between the vessel's flag state and the US only

Question 6

Under 33 CFR Part 161, a vessel that loses radio communications while in a VTS area must:

Accepted Answer

Notify VTS by any available means and await further instructions

Answer

Immediately anchor until communications are restored

Answer

Proceed to the nearest port at maximum speed

Answer

Attempt to restore communications and continue if unable within 30 minutes

Question 7

Which document provides VTS operators with the specific procedures, communication protocols, and local rules for their VTS area?

Accepted Answer

The VTS User's Manual / Notice to Mariners

Answer

The COLREGS

Answer

The IALA VTS Manual

Answer

SOLAS Chapter V